With billions of active users, Facebook remains one of the most popular social media platforms, making it a prime target for cybercriminals. Following a significant data breach in 2018, Facebook has ramped up its security features, and it’s now easier than ever for users to safeguard their accounts. Here are four essential steps you can take to secure your Facebook profile and protect your personal information.

1. Activate Two-Factor Authentication

One of the most effective ways to protect your Facebook account is by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). This feature adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification step whenever someone tries to log into your account. Once activated, Facebook will send a unique six-digit code to a trusted device whenever an unrecognized login attempt occurs. To set this up, simply go to your Security Settings, enable the “Login Approval” feature, and select the device to receive the code.

2. Set Up Login Alerts

Login Alerts are another crucial security measure. By turning this feature on, you’ll be notified whenever someone tries to access your account. You’ll also have the option to view which devices are currently logged into your profile. If you spot a device that you don’t recognize, you can easily log it out by navigating to the “Where You’re Logged In” section in your security settings and selecting “End Activity” for any suspicious device.

3. Review Connected Third-Party Apps

Over time, you may have linked your Facebook account to various third-party apps or websites. While these integrations can be convenient, they also increase your risk if the external platforms lack strong security measures. Regularly check which apps have access to your Facebook account and remove any that you no longer use or that appear untrustworthy. To do this, go to your Settings, select “Apps,” and review the list of connected platforms. Disconnect any apps you don’t recognize or trust.

4. Use a Strong, Unique Password

It’s easy to overlook, but using a weak or common password is one of the most frequent causes of security breaches. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as your name, birthday, or phone number. Instead, choose a complex password with a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Additionally, don’t use the same password across multiple accounts. If a hacker gains access to one platform, they could use the same password to try to break into your Facebook account and other services. Protecting your Facebook account with a unique, robust password is a simple yet essential step to securing your data.

By following these four steps, you can significantly enhance your Facebook security and reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access. While no system is completely foolproof, these precautions are an excellent way to keep your account safe from hackers and other threats.